Why Almaty is Becoming a Must-Visit Destination, A Perfect Blend of Natural Beauty and Modern Living in Kazakhstan

Published on September 16, 2025

Almaty, a city situated at the foot of the Altai Mountains in Kazakhstan, has evolved into a dynamic destination that combines both modernity and natural beauty. Known for its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, this former capital has rapidly gained recognition as one of the top travel destinations in Central Asia. The increasing interest in Almaty can be attributed to the city’s unique mix of cosmopolitan flair, historic charm, and stunning landscapes, making it a prime destination for travelers and adventure seekers alike.

With a booming tourism sector, Almaty has become a symbol of how a city can grow and thrive while still preserving its traditional cultural values and natural resources. The rise in international tourism reflects Almaty’s growing status as a global tourism hub.

Almaty’s Rapid Growth: Shaping the Future of Travel

At the foot of the towering Altai Mountains, Almaty offers a perfect balance between its bustling urban life and the peaceful tranquility of nature. The city has become a sought-after destination, drawing in travelers from all over the world due to its mesmerizing landscapes, rich cultural attractions, and welcoming atmosphere. The city’s ability to mix the allure of nature with modern amenities has played a pivotal role in its growing popularity.

In recent years, the number of international visitors to Almaty has surged, further solidifying its status as one of Central Asia’s leading destinations. Tourists flock to the city for its diverse range of attractions, including its stunning natural surroundings and historical landmarks. With Kazakhstan’s tourism sector expanding at a fast pace, Almaty benefits from the overall growth of global travel, which is making it an increasingly important part of the world tourism landscape.

Tourism Boom: Almaty’s Global Appeal

In 2024, Almaty experienced a remarkable tourism surge, welcoming 2.3 million visitors, which was a 14.8% increase compared to the previous year. The city attracted tourists from a variety of countries, including India, China, the United States, Turkey, and South Korea, demonstrating its growing appeal on the global stage. The influx of international travelers further emphasizes Almaty’s emerging status as a top cultural and natural destination.

This growth in tourism is paired with a substantial rise in investment in Kazakhstan’s travel industry, which saw more than $570 million invested in 2025 alone. This increase in investment supports the development of tourism infrastructure and highlights the economic importance of the travel industry in the region. Domestic tourism also saw an uptick, with 10.5 million Kazakh citizens traveling within Kazakhstan in 2024, while Kazakh nationals traveling abroad reached 15.6 million. The steady growth in both international and domestic tourism illustrates how Almaty is at the heart of Kazakhstan’s expanding travel industry.

Almaty’s Natural Beauty: The Ultimate Outdoor Playground

One of the main attractions of Almaty is its extraordinary natural beauty. The city is surrounded by the Altai Mountains, which offer endless opportunities for outdoor exploration, from glacial lakes and mountain trails to vast valleys. The Big Almaty Lake, located at over 2,500 meters above sea level, is one of the region’s most famous natural wonders. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, this glacial lake offers a peaceful and serene environment perfect for hiking and picnics, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers.

In addition to Big Almaty Lake, other notable natural landmarks such as Lake Issyk and Charyn Canyon draw a lot of attention. Often referred to as Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon, Charyn Canyon offers dramatic rock formations and hiking trails that are popular among adventure enthusiasts. For those visiting during the winter season, Shymbulak Ski Resort provides modern ski slopes with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The nearby Ile-Alatau National Park offers even more opportunities for hiking, wildlife photography, and immersion in nature.

The natural environment surrounding Almaty offers more than just visual beauty. The peaceful and calm atmosphere of the area makes it an ideal place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature. This unique combination of adventure and serenity makes Almaty the perfect destination for travelers seeking both excitement and tranquility.

Horseback Riding: A Unique Connection to Almaty’s Wilderness

For those seeking a more immersive experience in Almaty’s wilderness, horseback riding provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural surroundings. The rugged mountain trails and lush valleys around the city offer a scenic and thrilling adventure for travelers looking to connect with nature in a more intimate way. Riding through these vast landscapes allows visitors to fully engage with the untouched beauty of Almaty, offering a connection to the land that few other activities can match.

Whether riding across open plains or through dense forests, horseback riding provides a fresh perspective of Almaty’s wilderness, allowing travelers to experience the beauty of the city’s landscapes up close. This unforgettable experience enables visitors to witness the vast, unspoiled nature of Kazakhstan and creates a deeper connection with the land.

Almaty’s Urban Energy: A Fusion of History and Modernity

While Almaty is primarily known for its natural beauty, the city itself is a vibrant hub of urban energy. The architecture of the city is an exciting blend of Soviet-era buildings and sleek modern structures, reflecting a fascinating fusion of history and contemporary living. Almaty is also home to a dynamic cultural scene, offering a variety of museums, art galleries, and theaters that showcase the city’s diverse influences from Kazakh, Russian, and European cultures.

One of the cultural jewels of the city is the Abilkhan Kasteev State Art Museum, which houses over 20,000 pieces of artwork, representing a wide range of artistic styles and movements. Additionally, the Tselinny Center of Contemporary Culture plays an important role in contributing to the city’s thriving artistic community.

As the city continues to grow, areas such as Dostyk Avenue and Panfilov Street have become hotspots for shopping, dining, and nightlife, catering to both locals and visitors looking to experience the cosmopolitan side of Almaty. With its chic boutiques, lively entertainment, and international cuisine, these districts offer a taste of modern urban life in Almaty.

Almaty’s Cultural Legacy: Landmarks That Tell the Story of Kazakhstan

Almaty is home to several historical landmarks that reflect Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage. Among the most significant sites is the Zenkov Cathedral, an architectural marvel made entirely of wood without the use of nails. This unique structure stands as a symbol of the city’s historical and cultural identity.

The Central State Museum in Almaty offers visitors a comprehensive look into the history of Kazakhstan, with over 30,000 artifacts that span from the nomadic era to the modern period. As the largest museum in the country, it is an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand the depth and complexity of Kazakh history. Another important cultural site is the Abay Opera House, which hosts a variety of performances, including classical music, ballet, and Kazakh folklore.

For travelers seeking a more hands-on cultural experience, the Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazar) is a must-visit. This bustling market offers an authentic taste of Kazakh life, with an array of local products, spices, and traditional foods like kurt (dried cheese) and baursak (fried dough). The market provides an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to engage directly with Kazakh culture.

Kazakh Hospitality and Cuisine: A Rich Cultural Experience

The hospitality of the people in Kazakhstan is one of the most memorable aspects of visiting Almaty. Visitors are often welcomed with open arms into local homes and invited to share traditional meals, a testament to the community spirit of the country. This warmth and generosity make travelers feel like part of the family and is an essential aspect of the Kazakh experience.

The Kazakh cuisine is deeply influenced by the country’s nomadic heritage, offering hearty and flavorful dishes. Some of the most popular foods include beshbarmak, a meat and pasta dish, and plov, a fragrant rice pilaf. For those seeking a truly authentic experience, shubat, a fermented camel’s milk drink, is a must-try. These dishes offer a unique culinary adventure that allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the flavors and traditions of Kazakh culture.

Almaty – A Destination You Can’t Miss

Almaty offers something for every type of traveler. Whether drawn to its majestic natural beauty, fascinated by its rich history, or intrigued by its vibrant cultural scene, Almaty is an unforgettable destination. The rise in international tourism reflects the city’s increasing importance in the global travel industry, making it a prime spot for those looking for new adventures.

The city is easily accessible via its well-connected international airport, making it a convenient and attractive option for travelers worldwide. With its combination of stunning landscapes, cultural depth, and warm hospitality, Almaty promises to leave an indelible impression on all who visit. Whether you’re seeking nature, history, or simply the opportunity to experience a new way of life, Almaty should undoubtedly be on every traveler’s bucket list.